On Friday, March 7, 2025, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP) in Ghana marked International Women’s Day (IWD) with a symbolic “Empowerment Walk” through the principal streets of Accra. The event aimed to raise awareness and support for gender equality, promote the protection of women’s and girls’ rights, and celebrate progress made toward gender equality since the Beijing Declaration 30 years ago.
This year’s celebration adopted the global IWD theme, “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” with the campaign hashtag #ForAllWomenAndGirls. The Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, delivered the keynote address, highlighting Ghana’s strides in promoting gender equality.
Dr. Lartey cited key initiatives such as the Affirmative Action Act and the establishment of the Women Development Bank. She also acknowledged the historic achievement of Her Excellency Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as Ghana’s first female Vice President, describing it as a milestone that inspires women to aim higher.
The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to empowering women by providing platforms for them to showcase their innovations. Support for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence will continue through the Orange Support Center and the BOAME Mobile Application.
The event featured solidarity messages from stakeholders and development partners, including the Country Director of UNFPA, Dr. David Wilfred Ochan. He pledged additional support to amplify efforts promoting equal rights and opportunities for women and girls across the country.
The celebration concluded with a call to action from the Director of the Department of Gender, Madam Faustina Acheampong. She emphasized the need to break down stereotypes limiting opportunities for women and urged society to recognize their vital role in national development. The 2025 International Women’s Day celebration served as a strong reminder of Ghana’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
